15 Incredible Benefits of Coconut Oil and its Uses

Coconut oil is a type of oil that has begun to attract a lot of attention as nutritionists and dermatologists have emphasised its many uses and potential health benefits of coconut oil. My grandma and mother told me about the amazing health benefits of coconut oil, and as an Indian, I have utilised it for a variety of uses. Whether it’s for having thick, long hair, bright, healthy skin, preparing nutritious meals, making cookies, or anything else. Even Ayurveda, an ancient form of Indian medicine, has praised coconut oil as a versatile, wholesome oil type that can even be included in some prescription drugs. But, at one point, the amount of fat in it was questioned, and some experts even asserted that it was unhealthy and a cause of cardiovascular diseases. Is coconut oil truly a superfood, as advertised? But today’s circumstances are entirely in favour of this oil due to its nutritional value. In this article, we’ll talk about the 20 uses and 15 health benefits of coconut oil. Let’s get started.

All about Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is one of the most versatile oil types. We have known since we were young about the wonderful benefits of coconut oil for treating hair and skin problems. Due to its many advantages and uses, it is frequently referred to as a “backbone of health”. Now that nutritionists and dermatologists have drawn attention to the benefits of coconut oil, this oil is beginning to gain the recognition it deserves. The nut (fruit) of the Arecaceae family tree, known as the coconut palm, produces coconut oil. The old Portuguese word coco, which means “skull” or “head,” is where the word “coco” derives from. India, Indonesia, and the Philippines collectively generate around 75% of the world’s coconut supply. And coconuts also play a significant religious and cultural role in our Hindu rites.

Nowadays, coconut oil has become more well-liked all over the world. Coconut oil has been used for many years for a variety of uses, including baking, hair oil, deodorant, and sunscreen. What truly amazes me, however, is its versatile properties and nutritional value, which also make it the ideal ingredient to blend into a variety of goods, whether they be food- or cosmetic-related. What benefits can coconut oil offer besides introducing you to the tropics with its aroma and flavour? Well, it can help you in losing weight, improve your fitness regime, and even deal with cholesterol problems. For people who follow plant-based diets or even with allergies, coconut oil can be a great dairy substitution in several recipes. To learn more about coconut oil, read the article below by scrolling down.

Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a healthy oil that is packed with vital vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants that our bodies need daily. When we were children, our mothers would give us champi, cover us with coconut oil in the cold, and do other things. The best thing about coconut oil is that we may use it both topically and internally to get the health benefits it offers. 

The major health benefits of coconut oil that can be obtained through frequent use or consumption are showcased below-

• Contains Medium-chain Fatty Acids: The majority of health benefits of coconut oil are due to its medium-chain fatty acids. Coconut oil differs from other dietary oils because it contains primarily medium-chain fatty acids, whereas the majority of other oils mainly include long-chain fatty acids. In comparison, long-chain fatty acids contain carbon atoms with more than count 12, whereas medium fatty acids have a chain of 6 to 12. This structural difference has a variety of effects on your body as well as how this oil gets absorbed, among other things.

• Helps in Treating Alzheimer’s Diseases: Our brain produces its insulin to turn glucose into energy for the brain cells, or it uses the ketones our liver produces as a fuel source. Our bodies manufacture ketones when our liver breaks down medium-chain fatty acids, and our brain uses these ketones to generate energy. Ketones give the brain energy without requiring insulin to convert glucose into cellular energy. But, an Alzheimer’s patient’s brain stops being able to produce insulin, so it must rely on ketones. According to studies, coconut oil’s ketones may act as a different type of energy source that can be used to cure Alzheimer’s disease and restore brain function.

• Protects Our Body From Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Diseases: Natural saturated fats are abundant in coconut oil. Along with improving your body’s heart health, saturated fats also help convert LDL “bad” cholesterol into beneficial fats. Coconut oil usage regularly raises HDL cholesterol levels. With elevated levels of good cholesterol in the body, the benefits of coconut oil start improving our cardiovascular function and lower the risk of stroke and heart attack.

• Reduces the Symptoms of UTI And Kidney Infections: The benefits of coconut oil are shown to lower and ease the signs and symptoms of UTI and kidney infections. The medium-chain fatty acids in the oil, according to research, kill the bacteria by targeting and degrading their lipid protective covering. Also, it successfully supports the defence of the internal organs against any damage, infection, or malfunction.

• Provides Relief From Knee Problem And Swelling: Coconut oil has higher levels of antioxidant properties than other popular treatments, which makes it more effective at reducing swelling and knee discomfort. Another study found that the benefits of coconut oil aid in reducing the cytokines that cause swelling. Both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties are present.

• Prevents Cancer: The two essential properties of coconut oil, which include the ketones the oil produces, can fight cancer. The ketone energy cannot be connected by cancer cells, which are gastric inhibitory peptides. A ketogenic diet might be beneficial for helping cancer patients recover. The second quality of coconut oil is its concentration of medium-chain fatty acids. In addition to harming the helicobacter microorganisms, which are linked to a greater risk of stomach cancer, MCFAs can also hurt these microbes because they can penetrate microbial lipid barriers. Moreover, research suggests that lauric acid inhibits cell growth, which results in anti-proliferation actions.

• Helps with Memory Functions: According to studies, coconut oil’s medium-chain fatty acids help adults’ memory function. In an experiment, subjects were instructed to take 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, and each subject’s ability to recognise and recall information significantly improved. Without the usage of insulin, MCFAs can indeed be made accessible within the brain and are readily absorbed by our bodies. As a result, the benefits of coconut oil can have a more powerful effect on the brain.

• Helps with Weight Loss: This attribute of coconut oil is what makes it so well-known in the field of health and fitness. Due to its capacity for generating energy and the fact that it contains no carbohydrates, coconut oil aids in weight loss. It has been proven in studies to be very helpful for losing belly fat since it aids in the burning of calories and fat as well as reduces ravenous appetite. 

• Provides Healthy Hair: The ideal fatty acids found in coconut oil can substantially improve dry hair and dandruff. In actuality, coconut oil has a lot of benefits for your hair. You might wind up creating your customized coconut lavender shampoo and using pure coconut oil like a natural conditioner to strengthen your hair. To remove dandruff and thicken hair, gently massage one tablespoon of coconut oil mixed with ten droplets of the essential oil of rosemary into the hair for three minutes. After 30 minutes, that is a good shower.

• Promotes Anti-ageing: Increased antioxidant levels from coconut oil can delay the onset of ageing signs. It works well by reducing oxidative stress and decreasing renal stress. Moreover, research has shown that the health benefits of coconut oil may help with detoxification because of how it interacts with the liver. One must begin consuming at least 2 tablespoons of coconut oil alongside antioxidant-rich food for breakfast to naturally halt the ageing process. For further health benefits and to help your skin become more supple, you can also apply it directly to your skin.

• Balances Our Hormones: Hormonal effects are included in the list of health benefits of coconut oil. The saturated fats in coconut oil, such as lauric acid, may help to balance hormone imbalances naturally. According to a study, coconut oil is a fantastic product to consume during the menstrual cycle because it has properties of female hormones. To naturally regulate hormone production, cut back on sugar and grains while consuming plenty of ghee, coconut oil, avocados, chia seeds, and other healthy fats. Other coconut products, including coconut water or coconut butter, are also edible.

• Yeast and Candida Illness: Coconut oil is a great all-natural treatment for candida and fungus infections because it contains high levels of lauric and capric acids. Eat lots of healthy fats and cut out refined sugar and processed wheat from your diet to finally get rid of yeasts and heal candida infections. You can get this benefit of coconut oil by adding to your diet one tablespoon, taken three times daily.

• Helps In Curing Type-2 Diabetes: When cells refuse to respond to insulin and stop utilising glucose for energy, this condition is known as insulin resistance. In terms of structure, the pancreas produces more insulin, which could lead to a cycle of oversupply. Type 2 diabetes is a precursor to insulin sensitivity. Studies show that the MCFAs found in coconut oil aid in improving digestive health by limiting insulin retorts in particles. These acids also help to reduce biliary strain and give the body a consistent energy source independent of glycemic responses, which may help to prevent type II diabetes and insulin sensitivity. 

• Promotes Bone Density: Both oxidase and oxidative free radicals are major contributors to bone loss. But because coconut oil contains numerous antioxidants that fight damage caused by free radicals, it is a common and popular osteoporosis treatment. In terms of digestive health, coconut oil improves calcium absorption. Coconut oil is observed in studies on bone loss to not only increase bone thickness and production in participants but also to lessen bone adherence brought on by bone density.

• Promotes Oral Health: This benefit of coconut oil is also extensively discussed in Ayurvedic scriptures. Oil pulling, an Ayurvedic practice, greatly strengthens and improves our overall oral health. Swish coconut oil in your mouth for at least 15-20 minutes first thing in the morning as part of this practice. Daily practice will greatly aid in reducing the number of bacteria in the mouth, improving gum health, and preventing problems such as bad breath and cavities. It’s also simple to incorporate into your routine.

Applicability and Uses

Now that you’ve read about the top health benefits of coconut oil, it’s time to learn about some other ways to use coconut oil that won’t bore you. As previously stated, coconut oil is a versatile oil type, which means it can be used in a variety of ways. We have compiled a list of 20 different uses of coconut oil:

• For Cooking: Both cooking and baking can be done with coconut oil. It is not susceptible to oxidation or damage, unlike the majority of polyunsaturated vegetable oils. Moreover, it gives veggies, meats, and eggs a light, satisfying flavour. All of the significant health benefits of coconut oil that we previously highlighted can be attained by cooking your food in pure coconut oil.

• Consumed Raw: Raw coconut oil provides advantages of its own. A person feels energised and awake the entire day if they consistently consume 1 tablespoon of raw coconut oil. Moreover, it aids in “turning off” hunger pangs, which reduces unwanted cravings and aids in weight loss.

• As A Butter Substitute: Coconut oil is an excellent substitute for butter in a variety of uses, including consuming, topping corn, barbecuing, and frying. Coconut oil can also be used to top muffins, pancakes, and bread. It will not only improve the flavour and aroma of your dish but will also aid in the absorption of the major benefits of coconut oil.

• For Baking: Coconut oil can also be used instead of vegetable oil or butter in baking recipes. Pre-heating the coconut oil before adding it will make your recipe even more delicious and healthier. Use virgin coconut oil on your dishes to reap the most benefits of coconut oil.

• To Create a Non-Sticky Surface: You’ve probably always used baking butter or vegetable oil to coat your pans or baking surface, but we recommend switching to coconut oil instead. By doing so, you can give your dish a softer surface while also adding extra nutritional value to help you achieve the benefits of coconut oil.

• Salad Dressing: One way to make this salad even healthier and tastier is to use coconut oil in addition to olive oil for the dressing. It will boost the nutritional value of your dish while also providing the health benefits of coconut oil, olive oil, and vegetables.

• In Your Coffee and Teas: You can also use coconut oil in your teas and coffees to make them taste better, creamier, and more nutritious.

• In Chocolate Coating: Who doesn’t like chocolate-covered strawberries, dates, or other treats? To make it even healthier and tastier, combine cocoa powder and coconut oil. It will boost the creaminess and health benefits of coconut oil.

• Face Cleanser: Numerous face cleansers on the market contain harmful chemicals and toxins that are harsh on our skin. The oil cleansing method can be used to clean your face at night with coconut oil. It’s a quick and easy way to cleanse your face while also providing your skin with the healthy benefits of coconut oil.

• Make-up Remover: You can, indeed! The fact that it is free of dangerous chemicals leaves tremendous benefits of coconut oil and is, of course, cost-effective making it the perfect choice for your skin. Before cleaning it off with a washcloth, you can gently massage coconut oil into your face for two to three minutes.

• Deodorants: With its soft and light fragrance, it is simple to make one’s deodorant with only three ingredients and walk around smelling great. You can also include coconut oil, a pinch of baking soda, and your favourite essential oil. That’s all.

• As Stretch Mark and Scar Remover: Yes, pregnant women can benefit greatly from coconut oil. Because coconut oil contains vitamin E, anti-oxidants, and medium-chain fatty acids, it aids in the reduction of stretch marks and scars, as well as tightening and reducing redness.

• Shaving Lotion: Coconut oil can be used as a shaving lotion to give you a clean shave while also moisturising your skin.

• Massage Oil: Our mothers and grandmothers have been massaging our heads and hair with heated coconut oil for years, giving us the many health benefits of coconut oil.

• To Treat Cuts and Scrapes: Coconut oil moisturises, aids in the healing process, lessens the visibility of scars, and shields our wounds from future harm. Mixing a little tea tree oil with coconut oil will increase the anti-inflammatory effects and help you reap the benefits of coconut oil quickly.

• Lubricant: Also best, you’re not caking your body with a slew of carcinogenic chemicals. This benefit of coconut oil is the most cost-effective and ideal solution you’ll find. It’s soft, smells nice, and doesn’t dry out or become sticky with friction.

• Hair Oil: Yes, you already knew that, didn’t you? One well-known benefit of coconut oil is its ability to improve hair health. Massage coconut oil into your scalp and hair to moisturise, strengthen, and hydrate your hair, giving you thick and strong hair. Applying A2 dahi prepared by using desi cow milk with coconut oil on hair will yield excellent results. 

• Moisturiser: Coconut oil is an excellent moisturiser for both the body and the face. Because of its antibacterial properties, it helps restore moisture to the skin and is beneficial for conditions such as acne, allergies, athlete’s foot^[1], and others.

• Mouthwash: We talked about oil pulling in one of the benefits of coconut oil we previously highlighted. An Ayurvedic treatment called “oil pulling” is swishing coconut oil around your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes. This treatment has been shown to improve skin and oral health.

• Furniture Polish: It’s an unusual application but a fantastic benefit of coconut oil. To polish the furniture, mix a few drops of lemon juice with coconut oil.

Conclusion

We are confident that after reading about the numerous uses of coconut oil and its numerous health benefits, you are both impressed and unsurprised. Being Indian, I’ve heard my mother and grandmothers talk to us about the benefits of coconut oil for our skin, hair, and general wellness. And it’s not just a marketing stunt; an increasing body of studies indicates that using coconut oil could be one of the simplest ways to enhance your health, happiness, beauty, and perhaps even your sex life. Is coconut oil the superfood, as we questioned in the first paragraph? Now that we know, yes!